Casualties unknown

Fuel Exhaustion Leads to Off-Airport Landing During Cross-Country Flight (N759V)

Palm Springs, CA, US

On March 20, 1987, a Cessna 182Q (registration N759V) operated by Rainbow Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Palm Springs, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A cross-country flight experienced fuel exhaustion after encountering strong headwinds, forcing a diversion. The pilot reported fuel exhaustion on final approach, and the aircraft struck terrain short of the runway.

Incident Overview

A pleasure cross-country flight encountered unexpected conditions when the aircraft faced approximately 50-knot headwinds during the journey. The pilot had previously made one diversion to refuel, anticipating a direct flight to the final destination. However, during the last leg of the flight, the aircraft began running low on fuel.

Diversion and Final Approach

Recognizing the fuel shortage, the pilot diverted to a nearby airport. While on final approach to that airport, the pilot informed the control tower that the aircraft had exhausted its fuel supply. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft collided with terrain roughly one mile short of the runway.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained damage from the collision with terrain. No further details regarding the aircraft, pilot, or passengers were provided in the initial report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Mar 1987 Cessna 182Q accident near Palm Springs, CA?

A cross-country flight experienced fuel exhaustion after encountering strong headwinds, forcing a diversion. The pilot reported fuel exhaustion on final approach, and the aircraft struck terrain short of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Mar 1987 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N759V, operated by Rainbow Aviation, at Palm Springs, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30480. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.